Warning signs patients may be less well

Understanding what is ‘normal’ for the patient is important. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage to the lungs.

The following signs may indicate a deterioration:

• Feeling increasingly unwell over a few days.
• More breathless when performing normal daily tasks.
• Worsening or more troublesome cough.
• An increase in mucus quantity or more difficulty clearing mucus.
• Change in mucus colour and thickness.
• Coughing up blood.
• Chest pain when coughing or breathing or a generalised ache.
• Increase in tiredness, fatigue or lethargy.